Kyodo News reported on May 26, 2026, that the Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) issued the highest-level flood warning (Level 5) for the Kinokawa River in Wakayama Prefecture, western Japan. This is the most severe warning on JMA's disaster alert scale, indicating water levels have risen beyond safe thresholds, directly threatening lives and property.
Event details: According to the announcement, the water level of the Kinokawa River has reached a special alert level due to prolonged heavy rainfall from typhoons and tropical depressions in the area. JMA advises residents living along the river and in low-lying areas to immediately move to safe locations, avoiding areas at risk of landslides and flooding. Wakayama Prefecture authorities have activated emergency response plans and are prepared to assist with evacuations.
Extreme weather conditions in Japan in recent days have put many regions at risk of flash floods and landslides. Authorities are closely monitoring river flow and rainfall to issue timely updates.
